From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, on Monday swore in Hon. Egbung Odama Egbung as the substantive Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, charging him to lead with humility, unity of purpose and commitment to service.
The swearing-in ceremony marked the formal resolution of the leadership crisis in the council.
Otu underscored the strategic importance of local government administration, describing it as the tier of government closest to the people and critical to grassroots development. He said the All Progressives Congress places premium value on effective local governance because of its direct impact on communities, families and livelihoods.
Reflecting on the transition in Bekwarra, the governor commended party leaders, stakeholders and government institutions for managing the process peacefully and in an orderly manner, praising the maturity of the APC leadership in the area for preserving unity and stability.
“Position is not given for you to exert power or become an emperor. Position is for you to serve the people,” Otu said, reminding the new chairman that leadership is a call to responsibility, compassion and accountability, especially to the most vulnerable.
The governor expressed confidence in Egbung’s capacity to deliver, citing his experience and performance while acting in the role. He described him as a product of due process who understands governance at the grassroots and has earned the trust of his people.
Otu also said Bekwarra remains central to the administration’s economic vision for Northern Cross River, assuring that ongoing and future initiatives would reposition the area for growth and shared prosperity.
Responding, Egbung thanked God for what he described as an eventful day and assured residents of his readiness to serve diligently. He said his administration would be guided by transparency, due process and commitment to the welfare of the people.
Describing the new year as one of renewed purpose, the chairman urged residents to embrace hard work and collective progress, stressing that leadership, to him, simply means service.